Day gets year in the spotlight!

He’s played more than 200 times for Northampton in his ten year career at Franklins Gardens, not to mention gained representative honours for England Saxons, so it’s perhaps not surprising that Saints legend Christian Day has been awarded a testimonial in recognition of his remarkable contribution to the club.

The special year, during which Christian will also be raising money for his two chosen charities – The Leon Barwell Foundation, which supports families where the adult is affected by cancer, and Niamh’s Next Step, set up to help children fight the childhood cancer, Neuroblastoma – and will see a wide range of activities in which fans can show their support of his amazing commitment to the green, black and gold jersey.

The line up of events includes family fun days, quiz nights and black tie dinners as well as the opportunity to purchase a limited edition rugby shirt and an annual, celebrating all aspects of the number 5’s life!

The honour is a rare one and Christian, who also campaigns for welfare in the sport in his role as Chairman of the Rugby Players’ Association, is thrilled to have been granted the ultimate accolade, especially after he’d once considered giving up the game: “I knocked back the offer of a place at Oxford University because I wanted to play professional rugby and after stints at Sale and Stade Francais, the wonderful decade I’ve had at Northampton has more than vindicated that decision” explained Christian.

“Helping the Saints to the premiership title in 2014 has to rate as one of the best moments on the field but, off it, being given this testimonial is a real career highlight and I hope that I can give my great supporters a year of wonderful events to remember!” enthused the lock, known affectionately as ‘Daysy’.

The fundraising activities kick off with a British Lions Breakfast, which is taking place at Franklins Gardens on Saturday 1st July for the second test. Tickets are £45 for adults and £30 for children and include a luxury breakfast as well as the chance to enjoy half-time antics from Christian and some of his fellow Saintsmen, including Ben Foden and Alex Waller. To book your ticket, please email day5testimonial@icloud.com

Later that same day, the fundraising efforts move to Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, which is generously hosting a cricket match and family fun day, again with a number of the Saints players taking part. Entry on the day is £10 for adults with under 16s getting in free.

For more details on the calendar of events, to pre-order your rugby shirt or annual, or to show your support for Christian through a range of sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.day5testimonial.com You can also follow the special year on twitter at @Day5Testimonial and on Facebook at facebook.com/Day5Testimonialyear

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